Question

explain why a freely suspended magnet always points in the north south direction​

Answer 1

Answer:

A freely suspended magnet always rests in the north-south direction because the magnetic south pole of the earth lies in the geographic north direction and the magnetic north pole of the earth lies in the geographical south direction.

Hope this will help you

Answer 2

FINAL ANSWER

A freely suspended magnet always tends to settle in a north south direction. The magnetic south and the north poles align themselves with the geographical north and south extremities. Since opposite poles attract, the magnet settles in a north south position after adjusting its alignment with the earth’s polarity. The northern pole of  the magnet will tilt towards the earth’s south and  vice versa.

ALTERNATIVE ANSWER

The magnetic south pole of a magnet always lies in the geographical north direction. Likewise, the magnetic north pole figures in the geographical south. They are called the magnetic north and south poles due to their propensity to be attracted to the south and north directions. This principle comes into use in a magnetic compass where the needle points towards the magnetic pole.